Mesochora: A Scenic Mountain Village in the Pindus Range

Mesochora: A Scenic Mountain Village in the Pindus Range

Nestled in the rugged beauty of the southwestern Trikala regional unit, Mesochora (Greek: Μεσοχώρα) is a serene mountain village that embodies the timeless charm of rural Greece. Perched in the Athamanika mountains—part of the broader southern Pindus range—this settlement offers a tranquil escape characterized by high altitudes and dramatic natural landscapes.

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Geography and Location

Mesochora is strategically positioned on the upper course of the Acheloos river, one of Greece's most significant waterways. Sitting approximately 800 meters above sea level, the village benefits from a cool mountain climate and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks.

In terms of accessibility, the village is located about 40 kilometers west of the city of Trikala. It is conveniently situated along the Greek National Road 30, which serves as the primary transit artery connecting Trikala and Arta.

Administrative History and Demographics

Historically, the village was known as Vitsista prior to 1928. Today, it operates as a community within the municipal unit of Pindos, located in the municipality of Pyli within the Thessaly region. The village's current administrative structure was solidified in 1997 when it became part of the municipality of Pindos under the Capodistrian Plan, a major Greek administrative reorganization.

According to 2021 census data, the community of Mesochora has a population of 179 residents. This figure encompasses not only the main village but also the smaller neighboring settlements of Exochi and Spitia.

Key Facts

  • Location: Athamanika mountains, Southern Pindus, Greece.
  • Elevation: Approximately 800 meters above sea level.
  • Water Source: Situated on the upper course of the Acheloos river.
  • Population: 179 (2021 census), including Exochi and Spitia.
  • Access: Located on National Road 30 (Trikala - Arta).
  • Former Name: Known as Vitsista before 1928.

Village Overview

The following table provides a concise summary of the technical and administrative details of Mesochora.

Summary of Mesochora Community Details
Category Detail
Administrative Region Thessaly
Regional Unit Trikala
Municipality Pyli
Coordinates 39°28′N 21°20′E
Time Zone UTC+2 (EET) / UTC+3 (EEST)
Vehicle Registration ΤΚ

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the original name of Mesochora?

Before 1928, the village was known as Vitsista.

Where is Mesochora located geographically?

It is located in the Athamanika mountains of the southern Pindus range, in the southwestern part of the Trikala regional unit in Greece.

Which river flows near the village?

Mesochora is situated on the upper course of the Acheloos river.

What is the current population of the community?

As of 2021, the population of the community is 179, which includes the villages of Mesochora, Exochi, and Spitia.

How do I get to Mesochora by road?

The village is located along the Greek National Road 30, which connects the city of Trikala to Arta.

References

  1. "Αποτελέσματα Απογραφής Πληθυσμού - Κατοικιών 2021, Μόνιμος Πληθυσμός κατά οικισμό" [Results of the 2021 Population - Housing Census, Permanent population by settlement] (in Greek). Hellenic Statistical Authority. 29 March 2024.
  2. Name changes of settlements in Greece